Nestled in the heart of Ontario’s Haliburton Highlands, you will find Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa and over 100 years of history! Step into the past at our historic Inn in Ontario and experience the unique charm and interesting architecture of Sir Samuel Hughes’s historic estate.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone in need of a peaceful retreat, Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa offers the perfect getaway!
Brief History of Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa
Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa was built for Sir Samuel Hughes in 1919. The original mansion was built of stone and timber and included ten bedrooms for Hughes and his family. The residence was constructed along Eagle Lake to combine nature’s natural architecture with civilized comforts. Sadly, Sir Samuel Hughes only lived in the home for two years before passing away in 1921. His family remained at the estate until the 1930s.
In the ’30s, the Inn was renamed the “Glen Eagle Fishing Lodge” and operated seasonally until 1965. Then, in 1979, James Orr purchased the Inn, re-establishing the original name to preserve the history and heritage of the property.
Today, we have added 16 lakeside accommodations, the WaterSpa, and the conference room to the original design. Just like Sir Samuel 100 years ago, nature remains the guest of honor at our Inn!
Who Was Samuel Hughes?
Samuel Hughes was a decorated government minister who led Canada’s military through the First World War. Born in 1853 near Bowmanville, Hughes graduated from the University of Toronto and ran a newspaper for a decade before being elected to Parliament. He fought in the Second Boer War and was appointed Minister of Militia in 1911. He was knighted for his efforts in 1915 as a Knight Commander of the Order of Bath. He passed away in 1921 at the age of 68 years old.
Learn more about the history of Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa here!
Historic Attractions in Haliburton
After you have settled into our historic Inn in Ontario, we invite you to discover local history in the Haliburton Highlands:
- The Haliburton Highlands Museum: Discover community history and heritage at this museum in Glebe Park, offering historic buildings, exhibits, boat tours, heritage walks, and programs.
- Stanhope Heritage Museum: Witness more than 140 years of records and artifacts, including Ontario’s only log chute at this museum near Minden.
- Museum and Heritage Village: Walk through the past and explore five historic buildings that highlight Minden’s logging history.
- Yours Outdoors: Sign up for hands-on history tours with Yours Outdoors heritage experiences!
Book Your Getaway at Our Historic Inn in Ontario
Plan your getaway at our historic Inn in Ontario and immerse yourself in the history of the Haliburton Highlands! Enjoy everything Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa has to offer, including an on-site spa and restaurant. Browse our Haliburton accommodations and find the perfect property for your getaway today!
